Why does Irondequoit Creek flood so much?

ROCHESTER, NY (WROC) – Irondequoit Creek hit action stage on Friday, April 12 and that carried into Saturday, April 13 thanks to heavy rain and soaked soils.

Once the creek peaks at eight feet, the criteria at which the United States Geological Service (USGS) deems a breaking point, a flood warning is issued. This is one of the most flooded creeks in Monroe County.

One of the main reasons is elevation. The creek is at one of the lowest points (around 248 feet above sea level), so all surrounding streams flow into Irondequoit Creek, which eventually floats into Irondequoit Bay and Lake Ontario (at around 243 feet). You can see from the yearly data that the creek spikes frequently after heavy rains.

Allen Creek and Thomas Creek flow into Irondequoit Creek and the flood plane is wide as you get closer to Irondequoit Bay. This makes it more susceptible to flooding as you can see commonly at Ellison Park in Penfield.

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